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Canberra Today 15°/17° | Thursday, March 28, 2024 | Digital Edition | Crossword & Sudoku

ACT pastor allegedly commits ‘sinister’ sex crimes

A SENIOR pastor involved with a Canberra-based church allegedly told female members they’d be cursed and their family members would die if they did not engage in sexual behaviour with him.

Police say the 53-year-old used his position within the church to conduct “prayers of deliverance” on members of his congregation, which involved sexual acts.

Detective station sergeant Matt Reynolds says police believe the man may have more victims who are yet to come forward.

“This is a particularly sinister crime, where someone appears to have used a position of power for their own sexual gratification,” he says.

“It is distressing to see this type of exploitation still going on in our community.

“As a result of our investigation, we suspect this man may have committed similar acts in the ACT, NSW and New Zealand.

“We certainly suspect there could be further victims out there, and we are urging anyone with information about this man’s activities to come forward and speak to police.”

The man faced the ACT Magistrates Court today (Friday, February 15) charged with sexual intercourse without consent and acts of indecency.

Police urge anyone who may have any information about this matter to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website using reference number 6298421.

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Ian Meikle, editor

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